Q&A: Relying Only on Leniencies
Relying Only on Leniencies
Question
Hello Rabbi Michael, it often happens in life that one needs, or it is more convenient, to rely on a leniency in Jewish law. For example, regarding accepting the Sabbath: to accept the Sabbath late, following Rabbeinu Tam’s view, and to end the Sabbath following the Geonim’s view. The commonly accepted reasoning in the world of Jewish law is that if you follow a certain approach, you can follow that approach, but not switch whenever it is convenient. If so, is there any place in the world of Jewish law to go, in the same matter, according to what is convenient for me and say “I maintain” like that opinion on this particular point? I would be very happy to hear the Rabbi’s view on the matter. Thank you, David
Answer
The claim of “I maintain” in the context of prohibition and permission does not exist. That is an invention practiced only in monetary law. However, if you truly think that way, then of course follow that view—but not because you are relying on someone else; rather because that is what you yourself think. And if you hold that the beginning of the day is like Rabbeinu Tam and the end of the day is like the Geonim, there is no problem at all. That is your approach, and that is what you should do. But if you are simply adopting a position because it suits you, that is not possible. If you do not have your own view on a certain issue, you must follow the laws of doubt. What is convenient for you is not a consideration.
More power to the Rabbi for the response.